ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Forensic Lab Assistant Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Nwis

Electrical Engineer

Arlington, VA

$122K - $253K/yr

... assist with the restoration of services.Nightwingis seeking an Electrical Engineerto support this ... The Electrical Engineer will lead the establishment and operation ofClient'sChip-Off Forensics Lab ...

Nightwing

Electrical Engineer

Arlington, VA

... assist with the restoration of services.  Nightwing is seeking an Electrical Engineer to ... Chip-Off Forensics Lab, providing expert technical guidance on hardware forensics, chip ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsForensic Lab JobsForensic Lab Assistant JobsForensic Lab Assistant Jobs in Washington, DC

Forensic Lab Assistant information

See Washington, DC salary details

$11

$22

$33

How much do forensic lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for forensic lab assistant in Washington, DC is $22.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.80 and $26.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Forensic Lab Assistant vs Crime Scene Technician?

AspectForensic Lab AssistantCrime Scene Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate's degree; some certificationsHigh school diploma; specialized training or certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, handling evidence processingCrime scenes, outdoor and indoor environments
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, forensic labsPolice departments, crime scene units
Job FocusPreparing evidence, assisting with lab analysesCollecting evidence at crime scenes

While both roles support criminal investigations, Forensic Lab Assistants primarily work in laboratories assisting with evidence processing, whereas Crime Scene Technicians focus on collecting evidence directly from crime scenes. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path within forensic science.

What does a forensic lab assistant do?

A Forensic Lab Assistant supports scientists and forensic analysts by preparing and organizing laboratory equipment, handling evidence, and assisting with various tests and analyses. They ensure that samples are properly labeled and documented, help maintain a clean and safe laboratory environment, and may be involved in basic data entry or record-keeping. Their work is crucial for maintaining the chain of custody and ensuring the integrity of evidence used in criminal investigations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a forensic lab assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Forensic Lab Assistant, you need a solid background in biology, chemistry, or forensic science, typically supported by a relevant associate or bachelor’s degree. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, evidence handling protocols, and data management systems is essential. Attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team are valuable soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate evidence processing, maintain chain of custody, and support the integrity of legal investigations.

What are some common challenges faced by forensic lab assistants when handling evidence?

Forensic Lab Assistants often face challenges such as ensuring the chain of custody for evidence, preventing contamination, and adhering to strict laboratory protocols. This requires meticulous attention to detail, as even small errors can compromise the integrity of an investigation. Additionally, assistants must be comfortable working with potentially hazardous materials and be prepared to manage time effectively, as case priorities can shift rapidly in a forensic lab environment.
Forensic Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Lab Assistant job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,680 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

WBG Pioneer -Digital Forensic Lab Intern

The World Bank Group

Washington, DC • On-site

Internship

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

WBG Pioneer

Background/Organizational Context 

As part of the World Bank Group (WB), the Integrity Vice Presidency (INT) shares in the WB's overall mission in alleviating poverty and achieving a shared and sustainable prosperity in client countries. INT's fundamental role within the WB is to help detect, prevent, and deter fraud and corruption in the use of the WB's financial resources, so that those resources are used effectively to benefit the poor people that they are intended to reach.  

Forensic Services Unit (FSU) supports INT's fraud and corruption investigations, forensic reviews, and integrity risk mitigation across WBG-funded operations, Bank Group staff matters, vendors, and client-country contexts. FSU combines financial, technology (digital forensic and fraud analytics) and investigative skills for broader preventive and advisory work, including diagnosing vulnerabilities, quantifying losses, strengthening financial management and procurement controls. FSU also provides capacity building, knowledge sharing, external engagement, internal FSU strategy/reporting, and the use of forensic technologies such as digital forensics, eDiscovery, fraud analytics, AI/GenAI, blockchain, and cryptocurrency tools, while maintaining strong working relationships across INT, the Bank Group, development partners, and client countries. 

Duties and Responsibilities 

The Digital Forensic Intern will support Digital Forensics Lab Specialists in the identification, forensic acquisition, triage, preservation, processing, and organization of digital evidence and data. The intern will assist with the use of digital forensic and eDiscovery tools, including uploading, processing, and preparing data for review under the supervision of DF Lab Specialists. The role requires adherence to applicable global, WBG, INT, and VPU standards for evidence handling, data collection, processing, storage, retention, and confidentiality throughout the evidence lifecycle. The intern will also support the management and maintenance of DF Lab assets, including hardware and software inventory, evidence storage, archive organization, and general lab readiness. Additional duties may be assigned based on operational needs. 

Apply